Item Description
Original Item: Only One Available. This is an American classic, first introduced in 1865 and produced continuously until 1892. The Smith & Wesson Model 1 1/2 was Smith & Wesson's second .32 caliber revolver, intended to combine the small size and convenience of the .22 caliber Model 1 with the larger caliber of the 6-shot "belt sized" Model 2, which was introduced in 1860. Chambered in .32 cal, its cylinder held 5 shots. It was produced in three varieties, termed "issues" by S&W, with total production exceeding 223,000.
The First Issue Model 1 1/2 had an non-fluted cylinder and a flat bottomed "square" grip, and was chambered for .32 rimfire ammunition, and approximately 26,000 were produced. The Second Issue had a fluted cylinder and barrel, and a more comfortable and attractive rounded "bird's head" style grip. This version saw production of around 100,000.
The Third Issue was quite a departure from the previous two, and is actually officially termed the "Model No. 1 1/2 Single Action Revolver". Unlike the first two issues, this was a top-break design, consistent with the design of the Safety Hammerless or S&W .38 Single Action. It can be readily distinguished from the first two issues by the large hinge in the front of the frame below the barrel, and the lack of an ejector rod. The grip is rounded at the butt, and is similar in appearance to that on the 2nd Issue. Most importantly, this revolver marked the debut of the .32 S&W centerfire cartridge.
This example bears matching serial numbers, with 36740 on the cylinder, top latch, barrel, and on the bottom of the grip, though the grip marking is faint. The grip plates are original made from a natural BAKELITE-like material called Gutta Percha, and each side bears the S&W logo. One side has a partial crack but is still solid.
The spur trigger itself in our offered example has been deliberately modified to enlarge it for easier control. The Revolver is well used with most markings worn, however the Patent dates to 1877 are still readable on the top strap by the cylinder. Overall condition is good, though a lot of past pitting. Barrel shows lands and grooves but somewhat worn, and the latch spring is unfortunately broken.
These small pistols were a favorite of Gamblers and Ladies of the Night: these little revolvers saved a lot of souls no doubt.
ANTIQUE and ready to display, from the old West.
Specifications:
Years of Manufacture: circa 1880
Caliber: .32 S&W
Ammunition Type: Centerfire Blackpowder Cartridge
Barrel Length: 3 1/2 inches
Overall Length: 7 1/2 inches
Action: Single
Feed System: 5 Shot Revolver
- This product is not available for shipping in US state(s): New Jersey
This product is not available for international shipping.
IMA considers all of our antique guns as non-firing, inoperable and/or inert. Title 18, U.S. Code, Section 921(a)(16) defines antique firearms as all guns made prior to 1899. This law exempts antique firearms from any form of gun control or special engineering because they are not legally considered firearms. No FFL, C&R or any license is required to possess, transport, sell or trade Antique guns. All rifles and muskets sold by IMA that were manufactured prior to 1899 are considered Antiques by the US BATF (United States Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco & Firearms). Therefore, all of IMA's Antique guns may be shipped to all US States and most nations around the world.
These antique guns are not sold in "live" condition. They are sold as collector's items or as "wall hangers". Any attempt at restoring an antique gun to be operational is strongly discouraged and is done so at the risk of the customer. By purchasing an antique gun from IMA you thereby release IMA, its employees and corporate officers from any and all liability associated with use of our Antique guns.
Pre-1899 Manufacture, no licenses required, allowed to ship to almost any deliverable address across the globe. Please note that for international shipping, these MUST be shipped using UPS WW Services.
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